LeBron James, Marcus Smart combine for a fast break slam
The Los Angeles Lakers were looking for their third consecutive victory because they hosted the New Orleans Pelicans at Cripto.com Arena on Tuesday.
The Lakers built on the momentum of their back-to-back wins over the Sacramento Kings and Golden State Warriors, giving them an extra jump against the Pelicans.
It was quite evident in the third quarter, when Marcus Smart and LeBron James teamed up for an outlaw jam.
Smart telegraphed a pass to Saddiq Bey before going back and forth with James. The four-time MVP finished it off with a thunderous slam, completing theirs emphasis from defense to attack.
Marcus Smart and LeBron James combine for a quick shot 😤
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) March 4, 2026
41 year old James has been on tour latelyshowing that he can still stand up despite his age.
Meanwhile, the 31-year-old Smart has played his role well, disrupting the opposition’s attack with his tenacity and relentlessness. It’s no wonder he kept his starting role even with the Lakers’ lineup back to full health.
Coach JJ Redick repeatedly implored his players to put in more effort, especially on defense. The impressive play of Smart and James is further proof that good things happen when they are more active.
The Lakers beat the Pelicans 110-101 to improve to 37-24.
James had 21 points, seven rebounds, seven assists and two steals, while Smart had 10 points, three rebounds, seven assists, four steals and two blocks.
Luka Dončić was the best with 27 points on 10-of-22 shooting. He also had 10 rebounds, seven assists and seven turnovers.
The Lakers will face a tough test on Thursday against the Denver Nuggets.
2026-03-04 05:54:00
